LAVENDER (Hardy Perennial) - Everyone seems to be in love with lavender today and with good reason. Not only is its fragrance legendary but there continues to be new discoveries regarding its health benefits.Lavender is best purchased as plants. There are many varieties of lavender but only a few are hardy through our New Brunswick winters. The English lavenders including Hidcote, Munstead and Lady Lavender survive our winters best, especially when covered with brush. Other varieties can be grown as annuals or in areas where a mini-climate can be created to increase the protection in winter.Lavender likes sun and well-drained soil. It is very undemanding otherwise and grows well. There is a critical time for harvesting, just as the buds come to bloom. If left too long the flowers may fall off when drying. Make bundles of 10-12 stems, tie with an elastic and hang in a dark dry place. When dry use in sachets or for decoration. It will keep its scent for a long time.There are many ways to use the lavender you grow: